Meet Lee Feiles | Chief Master Instructor; Licensed Academy Owner, Teacher & Adjunct Professor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lee Feiles and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lee, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor to my business success is trust. Martial Arts training is all about personal improvement, so we need to be sure that every person we serve realizes the benefits of the program in a way that is personal to them, that satisfies their goals and expectations. Our goal is to help every student understand that they are part of our family, that they have a place where they belong and that the instructors are going to guide them on a journey that will be both challenging and rewarding.

When our students grow and achieve on a daily basis, friends and family are supportive, and we develop a positive reputation in the community. We make every effort to give back by offering free seminars and safety classes, which solidifies our reputation as a business that cares not only about our customers, but the community as a whole. In these ways, we work to earn and maintain that trust that has been given to us. Operating the in same location for 15 years, we have been blessed to receive long-term support by our families, people who have never been in our program and even students who have since ended their training with us.

What should our readers know about your business?
In the world of martial arts, professionalism is a significant characteristic of distinction. Through ATA International, I have learned what it means to be a professional teacher and business owner, as opposed to a hobbyist. When customers visit our school, they are treated by staff who are professionally trained on customer service and take their role as business leaders seriously. We operate a family-friendly academy that is clean and welcoming, providing all the necessary tools and facility amenities to ensure comfortable, safe and productive participation. Being licensed and certified by an international governing organization gives our customers the assurance that they are doing business with knowledgeable and accountable professionals.

But getting there was not an immediate step – I had to be dragged along a couple times. Fortunately, the mistakes I made along the way were not done in solitude. My instructors and mentors were able to help me learn from my experiences and made sure that I only took on as much risk as I was able. Then, using the continuous organizational support training, I was finally able to strike out on my own and become a leader for the next generation of instructors and business owners.

The biggest lesson in developing my business was understanding that I could not and should not do it alone. I don’t know everything, so I always need to rely on a great team to make sure it all stays in order. My accountant, attorney and marketing team all ensure that I have the ability to focus on being the best example of a martial artist I can be. My reputation is extremely important, and I am very proud of who I have become in my community thanks to the support and contributions of others to my vision.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love being part of a small town, for my family. But, we don’t have all the greatest entertainment. Phoenix, however, is so incredibly diverse. If we are looking for nature, there are some great hiking trails around the city, natural areas nestled in the urban centers like Camelback Mountain and South Mountain. Community fishing and town lakes are abundant, as well as miles upon miles of biking trails and greenbelts. Of course, you can go head up to the Wonder that is the Grand Canyon, but Canyon Lake is a beautiful place to enjoy a family day trip. Sedona, White Mountains, Tucson and destinations south – Arizona is abundant with every kind of experience you could hope for. Around town, we have found dozens of favorites for shopping and dining, San Tan Village and Desert Ridge are our favorites, especially after a day at the OdySea Aquarium, Phoenix Zoo or Wildlife World Zoo. And the kids just love the multitude of city parks and play areas all over the valley.
Whatever you are craving, Phoenix has the answer.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My success is due to the amazing leadership and efforts of those Masters and Instructors that showed me how martial arts can make a difference in my life. Eternal Grand Master HU Lee, founder of the ATA; Chief Master WJ Choi, who gave me the opportunity and direction to make martial arts my career; Presiding Grand Master MK Lee, who supports and encourages my goals to grow as a leader; Chief Master Michelle Landgren Lee, who continues to guide me as my instructor and mentor; my wife Jennifer and my children who stand with me as I pursue meaning and purpose in my career.

Website: https://maricopamartialarts.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-feiles

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaricopaMartialArts